Babbis Friis-Baastad Criticism
Babbis Friis-Baastad, a notable Norwegian author, is best known for her contributions to young adult literature, particularly through novels that explore themes of coping with mental and physical disabilities. Her storytelling journey began with crafting tales for her children, gradually expanding to wider audiences and eventually contributing to children's radio in the 1950s. Her distinguished works, Kristy's Courage and Don't Take Teddy, stand out for their unsentimental portrayal of the challenges faced by young people with disabilities. Inspired by her interactions with a handicapped child, Friis-Baastad's interest in these themes grew, ultimately leading to the publication of Du ma vakne Tor, aimed at mentally handicapped young adults but met with controversy in Scandinavia over its complexity.
Kristy's Courage narrates the poignant journey of a young girl, Kristy, who, after an accident, must grapple with societal perceptions of her disfigurement. This novel is celebrated for its realistic and sensitive depiction of childhood trauma and resilience, as noted by Anne Izard and Margaret Berkvist, who highlight the book's impact on young readers through its exploration of cruelty and psychological resilience.
Similarly, Don't Take Teddy is acclaimed for its subtle approach to themes of love and understanding, especially in families with disabled children, as praised by Zena Sutherland and Margaret A. Dorsey. Friis-Baastad's works remain influential in their candid examination of societal and familial dynamics, encouraging readers to reflect on the broader implications of love, responsibility, and acceptance.
Contents
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Anne Izard
(summary)
In the following essay, Anne Izard examines "Kristy's Courage" as a realistic narrative that portrays how children's thoughtless cruelty can lead to tragedy, while highlighting the protagonist's journey from avoidance to facing life's challenges, thereby engaging young readers and prompting reflection.
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Margaret Berkvist
(summary)
In the following essay, Margaret Berkvist examines Babbis Friis-Baastad's "Kristy's Courage," highlighting its honest depiction of a child's adjustment to physical disfigurement and the societal cruelty faced, while acknowledging the author's adeptness in exploring psychological themes, though noting its niche appeal and maturity beyond younger readers.
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Zena Sutherland
(summary)
In the following essay, Zena Sutherland commends Babbis Friis-Baastad’s Don't Take Teddy for its subtle, non-preachy narrative that effectively conveys themes of love and understanding through the perspective of a young boy coping with his brother's intellectual disability.
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Margaret A. Dorsey
(summary)
In the following essay, Margaret A. Dorsey argues that Babbis Friis-Baastad's novel Don't Take Teddy effectively portrays the challenges faced by a young boy dealing with a responsibility beyond his years, blending adventure with a universal message about caring for those more vulnerable.
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Greta Walker
(summary)
In the following essay, Greta Walker argues that Babbis Friis-Baastad addresses the sensitive issue of families with mentally retarded children in "Don't Take Teddy," while "Wanted! A Horse!" offers a reflective narrative on personal growth rather than an adventure story, despite some narrative and stylistic inconsistencies.
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Zena Sutherland
(summary)
In the following essay, Zena Sutherland evaluates Babbis Friis-Baastad's novel Wanted! A Horse!, praising its sympathetic portrayal of children and the nuanced depiction of familial and external relationships, despite its less dramatic storyline compared to Don't Take Teddy!.
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Zena Sutherland
(summary)
In the following essay, Zena Sutherland highlights the realistic portrayal of family dynamics and emotional challenges in Babbis Friis-Baastad's Wanted! A Horse!, emphasizing its engaging incidents despite a minimal plot.
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Rose S. Bender
(summary)
In the following essay, Rose S. Bender argues that Babbis Friis-Baastad's novel Wanted! A Horse! fails to captivate horse enthusiasts and suffers from a convoluted and unengaging plot, characterized by unclear relationships and an ineffective attempt at suspense.